AFCON 2025: Ndidi, Onyeka, Bassey face suspension threat ahead of Algeria showdown
Three Super Eagles regulars, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka and Calvin Bassey, will head into Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final clash against Algeria national football team under the shadow of possible suspension.
The midfield duo of Ndidi and Onyeka, alongside defender Bassey, were all cautioned during Nigeria’s Round of 16 encounter against Mozambique. As a result, they are now just one booking away from missing the semi-final stage of the competition, should the Super Eagles advance beyond the quarter-finals.
AFCON disciplinary regulations mean that any of the three players who receives another yellow card in the match against Algeria will automatically be suspended for Nigeria’s next fixture. This situation presents a selection and tactical concern for the technical crew, as all three have been influential in Nigeria’s campaign so far.
Ndidi has anchored the midfield with his ball-winning ability and positional discipline, Onyeka has provided energy and pressing from central areas, while Bassey has been a key figure in Nigeria’s defensive setup. Their potential absence in the semi-final could significantly affect the balance of the team if Nigeria progress.
The Super Eagles face a stern test against Algeria, a side widely regarded as one of the tournament’s most experienced teams. Victory would send Nigeria into the last four, where a clash against either Morocco national football team or Cameroon national football team awaits.
Nigeria’s quarter-final tie with Algeria is scheduled for Saturday at the Marrakech Stadium. Kick-off is set for 5:00 pm Nigerian time, with fans expecting a tightly contested encounter as both teams chase a place in the semi-finals of AFCON 2025.
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